Cost of new arts venue assessed

The new centre will take the place of the existing Theatr Gwynedd

Wales Millennium Centre architects have been appointed to look at the detail and cost of a new Gwynedd arts centre.

Capita Percy Thomas will look at the feasibility of replacing Theatr Gwynedd in Bangor, which closes its doors in the Autumn.

Critics have claimed that Gwynedd will suffer culturally because the present theatre is being closed too soon.

The new Arts and Innovation Centre would be a collaboration between Theatr Gwynedd and Bangor University.

Wales-based company Capita Percy Thomas are known for designing buildings such as the Wales Millennium Centre, Artsdepot in London, The Yi Cheng International Theatre in China, and the OpTIC building in St Asaph.

The architects are known for work such as this theatre in China

Bangor University's director of estates, Mike Goodwin, said: "The feasibility study will examine the possibilities in more detail and establish the full cost of the project.

"It will also lead to a design concept being developed which we expect to be ready by the summer."

Meri Huws, pro vice-chancellor of Bangor University added: "This has the potential to become one of the most exciting initiatives of its kind in Wales, and we're keen to hear what the local community would like to see in the new development."

The Unite union had called for the closure of the present theatre to be postponed.

"The closure of this theatre will be a huge blow for the local community as it forms a crucial part of Bangor's cultural life and serves many local community groups including many schools, dance and drama groups," said Unite regional officer John Hamilton.